Since the end of World War II a big part of the American dream has been to raise a family and own your own home. Unfortunately, neither of these tasks is necessarily easy. When it comes to purchasing your first home, there are several hurdles one must overcome such as saving for a down payment, procuring a mortgage, and finding a property that meets the needs and desires of your family. Due to the economic circumstances of the last several years, many people find they need mortgage assistance in order to purchase a home or stay in the one they currently own.